A judging panel of industry experts will judge the award entries over a four-week period. The judging is conducted online using a ranking system. The judging panel will then meet to discuss a final shortlist of three for each category, known as the finalists and one winner inclusive in each category.

Assessing award entries is an enormous task that requires the rigorous efforts of a collective of independent, industry-based experts from across the not-for-profit sector.

Entries are reviewed using the criteria and guidelines outlined in the category descriptions.

All discussions and deliberations that occur within the appraisal process are confidential. Due to the incredibly large number of applications received each year we are unable to offer individual feedback to applicants.  We do however strongly recommend that if you are unsuccessful one year not to let this deter you from applying again in the future.

Conflict of Interest Guidelines

The ALH conflict guidelines are based on the understanding that in all cases an actual conflict of interest in judging is to be avoided and that even a perceived conflict can be damaging to all parties.

  • All judges sign a conflict-of-interest declaration.
  • A conflict is considered to arise where a judge has a personal or professional relationship with a person, which may throw into question their ability to fairly and independently judge their entry.
  • Being from the same organisation does not necessarily make it a conflict of interests.
  • Prior to judging, all panels are sent a list of entrants to the categories they will judge which enables them to identify possible conflicts and alert the ALH and other judges.

The onus for declaring a conflict falls on individual judges. If the conflict is considered significant, the judge will be replaced. Where the conflict is contained, the judge will refrain from participating in any discussion concerning the entrant.

How to make a complaint

If you have a concern regarding a finalist, winner or the judging process and wish to inform us please outline this in writing and in less than 500 words and send it to [email protected].

Your letter should detail:

  • The award that concerns you
  • The precise nature of your complaint and your own interest or connection. For example, are you upset with the outcome, the judging process, or those who were successful
  • Your full name and contact details, including email address, and phone number. 

If you make a complaint, you must be willing to promptly reply to any requests for additional information.

We ask that complaints be made courteously.

Corrections and other issues

If you notice an error in our communications or have a problem with any other activity of the Australian Leadership Hub, please email us at [email protected].

Our response

We are committed to investigating and responding, in writing, to your complaint in a timely manner.

Resources for Entrants